EASY BASIL CHICKEN COCONUT CURRY

Imagine the fragrant aroma of Thai basil mingling with creamy coconut milk, all enveloping tender pieces of chicken in a symphony of sweet, savory, and subtly spicy flavors – that’s Basil Chicken Coconut Curry! This isn’t just another weeknight dinner; it’s an explosion of Southeast Asian-inspired deliciousness that’s surprisingly simple to make, and I promise you’ll be coming back for seconds (and thirds!).

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch ginger, grated
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced

For the Curry Sauce:

• 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
• 2 tbsp red curry paste (adjust to your spice preference)
• 1 tbsp fish sauce
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 lime, juiced
• 1 cup chicken broth

To Finish:

• 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves, roughly chopped
• Cooked rice, for serving
• Optional garnishes: chopped peanuts, red pepper flakes, lime wedges

Let’s Get Cooking: Your Step-by-Step Guide

Alright, my friend, let’s dive into making this incredible Basil Chicken Coconut Curry! Don’t worry, I’ll walk you through every step. It’s easier than you think, and the results are seriously restaurant-worthy.

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Before you even turn on the stove, get everything ready. Chop your onion, mince the garlic, grate the ginger, slice the bell pepper, and cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Having everything prepped makes the cooking process so much smoother and enjoyable.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Chicken

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
4. Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides. Don’t worry about cooking them all the way through at this point; they’ll finish cooking in the sauce.

Step 3: Build the Flavorful Curry Sauce

1. Stir in the red curry paste and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing it to bloom and release its flavors. This is a crucial step – don’t skip it!
2. Pour in the coconut milk, fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, and chicken broth. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
3. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low.

Step 4: Simmer and Infuse

Let the curry simmer gently for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly. This allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully. The longer it simmers, the more flavorful it becomes! Keep an eye on the liquid level and add a splash more broth if it gets too thick.

Step 5: Add the Bell Pepper and Thai Basil

1. Add the sliced red bell pepper to the curry and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until it’s tender-crisp. You want it to retain a little bit of crunch.
2. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the fresh Thai basil leaves. The residual heat will wilt the basil and release its amazing aroma.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve the Basil Chicken Coconut Curry hot over cooked rice. Garnish with chopped peanuts, red pepper flakes (for extra heat), and lime wedges, if desired. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

Tips & Tricks for Curry Perfection

Okay, let’s talk about some insider tips to make sure your Basil Chicken Coconut Curry is absolutely phenomenal. Because that’s what best friends are for, right?

Spice It Up (or Down)

The amount of red curry paste you use will determine the spiciness of your curry. Start with 2 tablespoons and adjust to your preference. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with 1 tablespoon and taste as you go. You can always add more, but you can’t take it away!

The Secret to Tender Chicken

Chicken thighs are the best choice for this recipe because they stay moist and tender even when simmered in the curry sauce. If you prefer chicken breast, just be careful not to overcook it, or it can become dry.

Full-Fat Coconut Milk is Key

For the richest and creamiest curry sauce, use full-fat coconut milk. Light coconut milk will work in a pinch, but the flavor and texture won’t be quite as luxurious. Trust me on this one!

Don’t Skip the Fish Sauce

Fish sauce adds a unique umami flavor that’s essential to Thai cuisine. Don’t be scared of it! Just a tablespoon is enough to add depth and complexity to the curry. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, you can substitute it with soy sauce or tamari.

Fresh Basil is a Must

Thai basil has a distinctive anise-like flavor that’s different from regular basil. It’s crucial for the authentic taste of this curry. If you can’t find Thai basil, you can use regular basil, but the flavor will be slightly different.

Variations to Make It Your Own

Want to put your own spin on this recipe? Go for it! Here are some ideas to get you started.

Add More Vegetables

Feel free to add other vegetables to your curry, such as broccoli florets, snow peas, carrots, or zucchini. Just add them to the skillet along with the bell pepper.

Make it Vegetarian or Vegan

To make this recipe vegetarian or vegan, simply substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh. Be sure to press the tofu to remove excess water before adding it to the skillet. Also, use soy sauce or tamari in place of the fish sauce.

Try Different Proteins

You can also use shrimp, beef, or pork instead of chicken. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Add Some Heat

If you like your curry extra spicy, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped chili pepper to the skillet along with the curry paste.

What to Serve with Basil Chicken Coconut Curry

This curry is delicious served over cooked rice, but you can also serve it with:

• Quinoa
• Cauliflower rice (for a low-carb option)
• Naan bread
• Roti

Other Delicious Chicken Recipes to Explore

If you loved this Basil Chicken Coconut Curry, you might also enjoy these other fantastic chicken recipes. They’re all tried and true, and perfect for weeknight dinners.

For a comforting and creamy dish, check out Marry Me Chicken Pasta. Or, if you’re looking for something quick and easy, the Ranch Chicken Crock Pot is always a winner. If you are looking for a dish you can make in the slow cooker, Crockpot Chicken Tortellini is another great choice. For a spicy kick, try the Bang Bang Chicken, or if you’re craving Asian flavors, the Chicken Lo Mein is fantastic. And for a healthier option, there’s the Creamy Low Carb Chicken Casserole.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Leftover Basil Chicken Coconut Curry can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave it or heat it in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

Final Thoughts

There you have it – a simple yet incredibly flavorful Basil Chicken Coconut Curry that’s sure to become a new favorite! With its aromatic spices, creamy coconut milk, and fresh Thai basil, this dish is a true delight for the senses. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience a taste of Thailand in your own kitchen. Happy cooking!